Network manageable advanced gas sensor apparatus and method

ABSTRACT

Mechanical, electronic, algorithmic, and computer network facets are combined to create a highly integrated advanced gas sensor system. The sensor system, utilized with gas insulated high voltage switchgear products, deployed by electric utility end users in replacement and expansion cycles, function to detect and mitigate atmospheric pollution caused by leaking SF 6 . As its associated gas insulated tank is charged with 10 to 350 lbs. of SF 6 , each gas sensor monitors its local cache of gas, accurately sensing and computing fractional percentage losses (emissions) and gains (maintenance replacement) in SF 6  mass, storing data in onboard data logs, and communicating data when triggered by detection events or in response to remote requests over a hierarchical communications network, a process that continues without labor until a fractional leak is automatically detected and reported creating the opportunity for early leak mitigation.

This application claims priority to: U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/568,108 filed Aug. 6, 2012 and to U.S. Patent Application No.61/699,835 filed Sep. 11, 2012.

This application incorporates copending U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/568,108 filed Aug. 6, 2012 by reference hereto in its entirety. Thisapplication incorporates U.S. Patent Application No. 61/699,835 filedSep. 11, 2012 by reference hereto in its entirety.

This application incorporates U.S. Provisional patent application Ser.No. 61/515,834 filed Aug. 5, 2011 by reference hereto in its entirety.This application incorporates U.S. Provisional patent application Ser.No. 61/542,261 filed Oct. 2, 2011 by reference hereto in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The field of invention is the field of intelligent gas sensors with thecapability to measure the pressure and temperature of one or more targetgas substances contained in a known volume and to compute the mass ofgas so contained as it varies in time due to additions or losses. Theinvention is also in the field of intelligent networked sensor nodesthat exchange sensor information and sensor configuration and controlinformation over communication networks. The field of invention alsoincludes sensors that measure time-varying environmental conditions suchas ambient temperature, atmospheric pressure, ambient light conditions,ambient sound levels, as well as various electrical conditions ofequipment adjacent systems including AC and DC voltages and currents.The invention also comprises the field of dielectric gas sensors and gasleakage sensors.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

There is a clear need for a low cost, network manageable, advanced gassensor for sulfur hexafluoride gas (SF₆) used in high voltage electricswitchgear. SF₆ plays a crucial arc-suppression role in this equipment.An expensive commodity and a potent greenhouse gas (GWP 23,900 timesthat of CO2), SF₆ lost through leakage is a costly problem justifying aneffective monitoring system. The instant invention appreciates theapplication requirements and the sensor and communications networktechnologies required to meet them. The invention further supportssecurity aspects that are paramount and tolerates the outdoor substationapplication environment which is challenging.

Worldwide, of 7 million kg of SF₆ produced annually, most (˜75% or 5.5metric tones per annum) is used for electric power equipment.Consequences for the environment and cost implications for electricalenergy producers and users are clearly conveyed. Lower-impact,lower-cost alternatives to SF₆, though sought, are not found. Techniquesfor estimating emissions have been based predominately upon indirect,mass-balance accounting methods that are costly and error-prone. Trialsusing expensive equipment (e.g. IR camera) combined with substantiallabor have nonetheless shown that environmental impacts and gas expensearising from leakage are significant and can be reduced.

Presently, SF₆ contributes 3% CO₂-equivalent emissions. As globalelectric usage (3×10⁶ Wh/capita) ascends to U.S. levels (1.3×10⁷Wh/capita), global generation increases 5-fold. While CO₂ emission perkWh generated must surely decrease, SF₆ emissions will scale withdistribution. Switchgear equipment manufacturers and utilities need alow cost, network manageable, advanced gas sensor to achieve reductionsin SF₆ emissions per kWh.

All electric producers and users benefit. The instant invention targetseconomical, distributed sensor technology that can be applied worldwideto achieve a 100-fold reduction in emissions rate—a tremendousopportunity for the environment and economies worldwide.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Although this patent application emphasizes use of the invention forsensing SF₆ in electric breaker applications, it is an important goal ofthe invention to be readily adaptable to many different gases and gasmixtures used in a broad range of processes.

This invention combines the mechanical, electronic, algorithmic, andnetwork facets needed to create a technology platform for highlyintegrated gas sensors. These sensors are of great value to electricutility companies and therefore to the manufacturers of equipment usedby the utilities. A sensor will be usefully integrated into each gasinsulated tank of each breaker and switch unit manufactured (tens ofthousands of sensors). These sensors integrated into high voltageswitchgear products, deployed by electric utility end users inreplacement and expansion cycles, function to detect and mitigateatmospheric pollution caused by leaking SF₆. As its associated gasinsulated tank is charged with 10 to 350 lbs. of SF₆, each gas sensormonitors its local cache of gas, accurately sensing and computingfractional percentage losses (emissions) and gains (maintenancereplacement) in SF₆ mass, storing data in onboard data logs, andcommunicating data when triggered by detection events or in response toremote requests over a hierarchical communications network, a processthat continues without labor until a fractional leak is automaticallydetected and reported creating the opportunity for early leakmitigation. Sensors also detect and log repair events including theaddition of gas made to replace losses, thus closing the overallmonitoring and mitigation loop.

Although a variety of devices and systems for monitoring and measuringaspects of SF₆ gas in laboratory and field settings are currentlydescribed in the research and trade literature, none represent a fullyintegrated, economical, network interface-able component forautomatically monitoring SF₆ gas trends in real-time on a tank-by-tankglobally distributed basis. Approaches based upon IR imaging such asEPRI and FLIR devices are expensive in both equipment and labor andtherefore find use monitoring for gas leaks only on a spot versuscontinuous basis.

High voltage breakers and gas insulated switchgear (GIS) require theirSF₆ content to be carefully monitored and controlled. Arc-suppressionsafety becomes an issue when gas supply is insufficient. Overpressure isproblematic with excess gas levels. Determining that gas levels are inthe desired range is generally achieved by gas density estimates whichin turn are generally derived from gas pressure measurementsappropriately compensated for temperature variations. The well knownideal gas law provides a simple model which conveys the concept:

$\begin{matrix}{{pV} = {{{nRT}\therefore\frac{n}{V}} = \frac{p}{RT}}} & (1)\end{matrix}$

Where P is gas pressure in the system, V is the volume of gas which isfixed by the equipment's rigid tank, R is a constant, T is temperature,and n is the mass quantity of gas. With V and R constant, measuring Pand T determines n/V, the gas density.

Two types of products have been developed which address the gas contentcontrol task. One type, which may generally be referred to as a gasdensity “monitor”, detects gas density by comparing relatively fewthresholds such as: a) high limit, b) nominal limit, c) low limit, andd) low lockout limit. This allows the user to resolve gas density intoone of five broad bins: 1) above a, 2) between a and b, 3) between b andc, 4) between c and d, and 5) below d. As illustrated in table 1, whilethis information is sufficient to enforce the above mentioned safetyfunctions, it falls short of the resolution needed for meaningfulemissions mitigation. Manufacturers producing gas density monitor-typeproducts include Solon Manufacturing, Wika, and Comde. In general, theseproducts, unlike IR cameras, are relatively low cost (under $1 k USD),of a simple and robust design, well accepted in the marketplace, andtherefore in wide use.

A second type of product for gas control applications may generally bereferred to as a gas density “transmitter”. This variant measures gasparameters including pressure and temperature to higher resolution,incorporates electronics to derive a temperature compensated densityfrom those measurements, and transmits a density proportional electricaloutput such as the standard 4-20 mA current loop. These devices, newerto the market, tend to be substantially more complex and costly. Thehigher resolution density measurement is a step closer to being usefulfor meaningful emissions detection and mitigation, but a substantialamount of additional functionality must be added externally by the userto interpret the density signal, track and log trends, and communicatedecisive information over the user's management network.

Accounting for the impact of temperature variation is of course animportant aspect of accurate gas density and therefore accurate gas masspredictions. The operating temperature range for breakers of table 1 isuniformly −40° C. to 40° C. At a nominal pressure of 75 psig at 20° C.,this temperature variation corresponds to a −15 psi to +5 psi variationin pressure. Under equilibrium conditions, the temperature compensationis straight forward. However, temperature is rarely expected to be “atequilibrium” in the case of breakers and Gas Insulated Switch (GIS)equipment deployed in outdoor environments across the land. A host offactors including sun, wind, precipitation, and weather in general willdrive short-term and diurnal temperature variations which in turn willcreate temperature gradients across tanks of SF₆ gas. Applying thenecessary algorithms to effectively compensate temperature dynamics toachieve the desired detection accuracies yet avoid false alarms is amajor accomplishment of this invention.

In summary, achieving SF₆ detection and mitigation efficiency severalorders of magnitude better that current practice, to maintain or improveon current levels of leakage in the face of anticipated globalelectrical consumption increases, according to the foregoing analyses,requires a 100-fold improvement which in turn implies gas sensordetection sensitivities of 0.5 kg to 1.0 kg reliably achieved overdynamic thermal conditions. The instant invention, achieving theaforementioned detection sensitivity and combining networkcommunications to trigger early service mitigation, brings the 100-foldimprovement goal within reach.

Practically speaking, the invention represents an advanced gas sensorthat both leverages the advantages of existing technology and appliesinnovations to overcome its shortcomings with respect to the SF₆emissions mitigation application. It can be globally deployed onbreakers and GIS equipment, will accurately track gas additions andlosses in real-time, and will be readily integrated into a broad networkmanagement infrastructure enabling cost-effective emissions mitigation.

The economic and ecological importance of improved SF₆ gas managementhas been emphasized. In real terms, each of 6.8 billion humans on earthis a stakeholder. The future of his environment, the quality and cost ofhis electricity, and the cost of all other goods and services he covets(that rely upon electricity) are at stake.

The most immediate beneficiaries of this invention and its technologywill be companies that manufacture and sell the advanced sensors itenables. This invention and technology is conceived to be low ingredientcost and designed for manufacturability from inception. Inherentlysoftware configurable, it supports flexible optioning and extensiblefunctionality. As to their customers, advanced gas sensor componentmanufacturers will enjoy the same growing market now shared byconventional gas density switch manufacturers, namely breaker and GISswitchgear OEMs, electric utilities, and other electric substationdesigners and operators. For example, a manufacturer of gas densityswitches in North American markets, estimates annual sales over 10,000units with significant market growth. For the customers' sakes, thisinvention and technology is conceived to support the surgical detection,tracking, and mitigation of SF₆ loss through equipment leakage withproducts that represent low component and operating cost burdens to theuser. The economic benefits are manifold:

-   -   Gas expense savings (demand for SF₆ and therefore gas costs,        already ˜$10/lb, is increasing)    -   Direct process data captured automatically inexpensively        demonstrates regulatory compliance, compared to costly, complex,        and error prone mass balance procedural alternatives    -   Avoidance of regulatory fines for emissions; and,    -   Capture of offset credits

What is the market size for customers that desire these benefits? Basedupon a weighted, average nameplate SF₆ capacity of 73 kg, andconsidering global annual SF₆ utilization for electric equipment of5,500 metric tons, and assuming 3 pole tanks per breaker, one canestimate a global population of equipment increasing at approximately200,000 tanks per year. Assuming this corresponds to a growth rate of5%, the global established market can be inferred to be approximately 4million tanks. This is the immediate market for my sensor invention inthe upgrade space.

This invention is conceived to be market friendly, utilizing amechanical bellows technology and form factor well entrenched in thepresent market. Flexible network interface functionality renders thissensor easy to integrate in the user's network management system.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the gas sensor apparatus.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the gas sensor apparatus with coveringand housing removed.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the gas sensor apparatus similar to FIG.2 with the pushbutton removed.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the gas sensor apparatus similar to FIG.3 with the temperature sensors and their mounting plate removed.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the gas sensor apparatus similar to FIG.4 with the processor printed circuit board removed.

FIG. 6 is a left side view of the gas sensor apparatus of FIG. 5.

FIG. 6A is an enlarged portion of FIG. 6.

FIG. 6B is a right side view of the gas sensor apparatus of FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 is a top view of the of the gas sensor apparatus as illustratedin FIG. 6 with the printed circuit board removed illustrating the leverand switch.

FIG. 8 is a bottom view of the printed circuit board.

FIG. 8A is a bottom perspective view of the printed circuit board.

FIG. 9 is a bottom perspective view of the gas sensor apparatus.

FIG. 10 is a front view of the sensor internal components.

FIG. 10A is front view of the gas sensor apparatus internal componentswith the riser cutaway illustrating the bellows.

FIG. 10B is an enlargement of a portion of FIG. 10A.

FIG. 11 is a top view of gas sensor apparatus internal components.

FIG. 11A is a cross-section of FIG. 11.

FIG. 12 is a top view of the gas sensor apparatus internal components.

FIG. 12A is a cross-sectional view of the gas sensor apparatus of FIG.12.

FIG. 13 is a hardware block diagram.

FIG. 14 is a processing block diagram.

FIG. 15 is a graph lever position as a function of gas pressure at 25°C.

FIG. 16 is a normalized sensor response as a function of lever position.

FIG. 17 is a graph of pressure compensation required as a function oftemperature.

FIG. 18 is a graph of temperature of normalized temperature sensorresponse.

FIG. 19 is a block diagram of the gas sensor system in a 3-phase breakerapplication.

FIG. 20 is a side perspective view of a gas sensor hub module.

FIG. 21 is an end perspective view of a gas sensor hub module.

FIG. 22 is an opposite side perspective view of a gas sensor hub module.

FIG. 23 is a top view of a gas sensor hub module.

FIG. 24 is a graphical user interface gas sensor reporting screen.

FIG. 25 is a graphical user interface gas sensor configuration screen.

FIG. 26 is a table of gas sensor numerical data.

FIG. 27 is a graphical representation of gas sensor numerical data.

FIG. 28 is a multi-conductor cable for interconnecting a gas sensor witha gas sensor hub module.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

As stated above, the instant invention supports a 100-fold reduction ingas emissions. What does this imply for gas density measurementrequirements? To address this question, begin by considering that, at atemperature of 20° C., the operating pressure for the breakers of table1 ranges from 64 psig to 82 psig, a span of 18 psi.

Table 1 also gives the nominal gas mass change attributable to pressurechange for each breaker under the aforementioned isothermal conditions.The function is simply proportional to the differential tank volume ofthe various breakers given the isothermal assumption. As expected, thelargest tank represents a worst case requirement for mass sensingresolution since smaller pressure changes accompany larger gas losses(large mass changes). In general, larger tanks will require higherresolution measurements to detect unit changes in gas mass.

TABLE 1 Breaker Model Designation HS HP-1 HP-2 HP-3 HPI-1 HPI-2 Rated72.5 145 169 242 345 550 Maximum Voltage (kV) Interrupting 31.5 40 40 40362 40 Current Rating (kA) Tank Volume 0.151 0.561 0.732 1.171 3.3673.542 (cubic meters) SF6 weight at 5.2 19.1 24.9 39.9 114.8 120.7 fillpressure (kg) SF6 weight at 4.7 17.4 22.7 36.3 104.3 109.8 nominal (kg)SF6 weight at 4.3 16.0 20.9 33.4 96.1 101.1 alarm (kg) SF6 weight at 4.014.8 19.3 31.0 89.0 93.6 lockout (kg) SF6 Emission 0.8 3.1 4.1 6.5 18.719.7 between fill and alarm (kg) SF6 mass per 0.063 0.232 0.302 0.4841.391 1.464 unit pressure (kg/psi) Distribution 50% 14% 13% 15% 6% 2%frequency[12]

Table 1—Representative gas insulated breakers with OEM recommended SF6fill conditions. If filled to just below fill capacity, breaker typeHPI-2 would emit 19.7 kg of SF6 before the alarm threshold wouldtrigger. Typically the so-called “nameplate capacity” will be threetimes larger than the above tank capacity since the breaker comprisesthree phases each with its individual tank The approximate frequencywith which various sizes occur in practice is attributable fromBlackman.

Now the question arises, what is the magnitude of gas loss one needs tobegin detecting? SF6 emission rates studied by various methods to dateappear to place gas emissions in the range of 5% to 10% of totalnameplate capacity annually. Accounting for frequency of distribution ofbreakers by voltage rating (and therefore by tank size), the weightedaverage of the nameplate capacities is approximately 73 kg (remember—3tanks per breaker typically). In a study of 2,329 breakers by Blackman,170 (7.3%) were found to be leaking. The amount of gas emitted toatmosphere annually may thereby be estimated at 3.7 kg to 7.3 kg perbreaker (5% to 10% of 73 kg). The actual leaks arise from theaforementioned 7.3% of the breaker population. Therefore, the averageleakage amount per leaking breaker is on the order of 50 kg to 100 kgannually.

The sensor-gas interface mechanism as one component of the advanced gassensor has many important aspects. The use a mechanical bellows approachis utilized for several reasons. These reasons include the bellow'ssimplicity, reliability, and broad use in SF₆ gas density switchapplications. The use of a mechanical bellows leads to a requirement fordetecting and processing mechanical displacement information. Processingthe displacement information supports accurate gas pressure inferences.

The advanced gas sensor combines a bellows sensing element with an MCUElectronics module comprising electronics and software for acquiring rawdisplacement and temperature information and processing these intoaccurate measurements.

Reliable pressure and temperature readings must ultimately be renderedfrom raw sensor data. The present invention utilizes an efficient signalprocessing chain for this purpose. Noise, stability, and other potentialproblems are thereby identified and overcome.

Processed pressure and temperature readings must be interpreted topredict gas density which in turn predicts gas mass changes in light ofknown, rigid tank volumes. The process, in isothermal conditions, isrelatively straight forward. Under conditions of changing temperature,the process becomes more challenging. Ideal gas law and virial equationswith alternative techniques for calculating temperature dependentcoefficients form the foundations of the algorithms utilized for thispurpose.

As stated earlier, the present invention uses a mechanical bellowsapproach to gas interface and pressure sensing. The advantages of thischoice are described above. Mechanical bellows components are readilyavailable from a variety of sources including Solon Manufacturing ofChardon, Ohio Mechanical bellows are widely used in mechanical, gasdensity monitoring products that enjoy a dominant share of the NorthAmerican alarm-monitoring market.

The bellows expands under increasing pressure. In the configuration ofthe embodiments set forth herein, the bellows actuates a rigid couplingto a platen. The platen's starting position and translational gain aresimultaneously adjusted with a counter-biasing coil spring. Nominal gainin the range of 0.001″ platen deflection per 1 psi change is typicallyachieved.

In the mechanical density monitor application, the platen carriesbi-metal elements that in turn actuate snap-action micro-switches underconditions of sufficient displacement. The bi-metal elements provide amechanical temperature compensation mechanism.

Contrastingly, in the instant invention, the platen is adapted to carrydisplacement sensor components which take the form of reflectivesurfaces, magnets, and other components supporting displacementdetection alternatives. FIG. 16 shows the normalized sensor response ofan embodiment which utilizes an infrared reflective object sensor (ROS)and another embodiment that uses a Hall Effect sensor (HES). FIGS. 6,6A, 9, 10, 10A, 10B, and 12A show the mechanical aspect of embodimentsusing the reflective object sensor and Hall effect sensor componentsrespectively.

As stated above, the invention targets supporting a 100-fold reductionin gas emissions. In the discussion above, it was deduced that a100-fold improvement in emissions mitigation implies gas sensorsensitivities of 0.5 kg to 1.0 kg. According to table 1 above, thissuggests a differential pressure resolution on the order of 16 psi to0.35 psi. Recall that the operating span of interest is approximately 18psi. Thus the required pressure measurement resolution (beforecorrection) is in the range of 1 part in 1.2 to 1 part in 52.7. Indigital measurement terms, this corresponds to a 1 bit to 6 bit dynamicrange, which is achieved using a microcontroller and 12 bit analog todigital converters.

Core bellows devices, prior to any modification, have been bench testedfor displacement response over the pressure range of interest at 20° C.Conventional gauge room equipment was used to measure displacement.Regulated compressed air provided pressure actuation. Pressure gradientsin both directions have been utilized to quantify hysteresis, andseveral runs are made to assess short-term repeatability. Analysis ofdata captured in these tests was analyzed and definitively demonstratesthe bellows fitness for the application in this invention as shownhereinbelow.

A microcontroller 1301 is used to perform displacement sensing andtemperature sensing, and to communicate raw data to the other controllerfunctions (via asynchronous serial communications initially). FIG. 13 isa simplified block diagram of the MCU 1301 and its interactions with theother elements of the invention. The Hi-RES transducer 1310 canoptionally be the aforementioned infrared reflective object sensor(ROS), Hall Effect sensor (HES), or other displacement transducer. Thetemperature probes can be thermistors 507B, 507D, 617B, 617D,thermocouples, RTD, or other suitable temperature transducers. FIG. 13illustrates, diagrammatically, temperature probes 1308A, 1308B, 1308C,1308D located within the sensor housing. Reference numerals 1308A-Dindicate, generically, many different types of temperature probes whichmay be used. FIG. 13 also illustrates the battery 1311, a temperatureinterface 1307, a displacement interface 1309, as well as a testcontroller (network manageable controller) 1312, a communicationsubsystem 1302, an analog to digital controller 1303, and a digital toanalog controller 1304, a digital I/O interface subsystem 1305, and asafety limit detection subsystem 1306.

MCU subsystem modularity allows easy substitution of alternativecircuits for the powered by battery DISPLACEMENT INTERFACE 1309 andHI-RES TRANSDUCER 1310. The MCU 1301 monitors battery state of chargeand computes circuit power consumption as well, an importantdistinguishing characteristic of circuit and algorithmic alternatives.The FLASH memory based MCU 1301 may be conveniently reprogrammed toadapt to varying sensing requirements. Operating parameters may beprogrammed and acquired data retrieved over the bidirectional,asynchronous communications interface.

Initial choices for HI-RES TRANSDUCER 1310 used to measure platen 601displacement include Hall Effect and photo diode/transistortechnologies. The optical alternatives comprise both transmission andreflective technologies. Piezo strain gauge and ultrasonic systems arepossible as well.

Processing and calibration requirements for rendering accurate pressurereadings from displacement data are included. Temperature channels arealso logged during operation. All data generated by the displacement andtemperature measurement blocks is forwarded to the Temperature andPressure Processing blocks. The invention covers the operating andtemperature ranges of interest. Temperature gradient and leak rate testsare also satisfied. The invention includes the signal processingnecessary for rendering reliable pressure and temperature readings fromraw displacement and temperature sensor data.

FIG. 14 is a processing block diagram 1400 which illustrates the generaltopology for processing displacement data. A similar signal chain isutilized for temperature data. The order of the functions utilized isbased upon the characteristics of the raw data and the desiredresolution and accuracy of the processed readings. Reference numeral1401 signifies raw conversions from displacement and temperaturesubsystems which are input into a system which enhances the signal tonoise ratio. Reference numeral 1403 signifies a system which linearizesthe displacement to pressure calculation. Reference numeral pressurecalibration signifies a pressure calibration system and referencenumeral 1405 signifies a digital filtering subsystem. Reference numeral1406 signifies signal processing parameters which are included in thesignal to noise ration subsystem and the linearization of displacementinto pressure. Reference numeral 1407 signifies pressure readings outputto gas mass calculations and user interfaces.

FIG. 15 is a graph lever position 1500 as a function of gas pressure at25° C. Reference numeral 1501 indicates the lever response from 0 psigto 60 psig. It will be noticed that line 1501 represents thedisplacement of the lever with respect over pressure range of 0 to 60psig and with the lever acting against the ball nose spring plunger.Reference numeral 1502 is a line on the graph of the lever position from60 to 100 psig for the coil spring 608 and bimetal hinge 708. Referencenumeral 1503 is a particular lever position of 0.026″ corresponding to apressure 1504 of 81 psig.

FIG. 16 is a normalized sensor response 1600 as a function of leverposition at 25° C. FIG. 16 is a normalized sensor response 1600 as afunction of lever position. Reference numeral 1601 is the response ofreflective object sensor and reference numeral 1602 is the response ofHall effect sensor (HES). Reference numeral 1603 is a particular HESresponse of 0.55 corresponding to a particular lever position 1604 of0.026″.

N.B. Calibration is achieved entirely using digital techniques todetermine coefficients stored onboard in nonvolatile memory. Use ofprecision or adjustable components is avoided in favor of standardtolerance, inexpensive, high stability components.

An equation of state model is required to compute the target gas densityfrom calibrated temperature and pressure data. A first order Gas DensityModel is used and provides satisfactory results in many cases.

The well known virial form set forth below as equation 2 utilizingcoefficient functions for SF₆ selected from various perspectives is analternative embodiment:

$\begin{matrix}{\frac{pV}{nRT} = {1 + {{B(T)}\frac{n}{V}} + {{C(T)}\frac{n^{2}}{V^{2}}} + \ldots}} & (2)\end{matrix}$

Where p, V, n, R, and T have their usual meanings in the ideal gas law,and B(T) and C(T) are the second and third virial coefficientsrespectively, each non-linear functions of temperature T.

This step further draws upon recent work by Scalabrin describing acomputationally efficient neural network technique for computingcoefficients in a certain form of state equation.

It is an important aspect of the instant invention to use a micro-powermicrocontroller platform to sense gas density to sufficient accuracy todiscern 0.5 kg emission events under a range of conditions of interestfor the largest tank volumes expected.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view 100 of the gas sensor apparatus. Cover 101and liquid tight pushbutton 102 are shown in FIG. 1. Cover 101 isaffixed to housing 104 by cover retaining screws 103. Sensor connector105 provides communications between the gas sensor apparatus and theexterior of the switchgear control cabinet. Power to the apparatus isalso supplied through the connector pins 105A. Connector nut 105Baffixes the connector to the housing 104. Manifold block 106 includes afirst gas port 106B for admission of gas to the gas sensor apparatus.Manifold block bolt hole 106A includes bolts which secure the manifoldin place. A display deadfront 109 (display cover) and gasket 107A areillustrated.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view 200 of the gas sensor apparatus withcovering 101 and housing 104 removed. Liquid tight pushbutton 102 whendepressed provides a temperature compensated pressure readout.Pushbutton cable 202 and connector 203 enables electrical communicationbetween the pushbutton and the electronics on board the gas sensorapparatus. Connector 203 interconnects with processor PCB pushbuttonconnector 204. Processor printed circuit board 205 is illustrated inFIG. 2.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view 300 of the gas sensor apparatus similar toFIG. 2 with the pushbutton removed. Display printed circuit board 301 isillustrated as being mounted to the processor printed circuit board 205using a standoff (spacer 303) and screw 302. Display digits 304communicate a temperature compensated pressure readout (display). In theapproximate middle of the printed circuit board 301, are processorprinted circuit board connectors. The display printed circuit boardincludes a coil spring clearance hole 306.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view 400 of the gas sensor apparatus similar toFIG. 3 with the display printed circuit board removed. The temperaturesensors 1308A-D, are best viewed, diagrammatically in FIG. 13. Thetemperature sensors will be located in the sensor housing in variousplaces so as to obtain accurate temperature readings representative ofthe gas being measured. A typical gas used in switchgear is sulfurhexafluoride gas (SF₆). SF₆ plays a crucial arc-suppression role in thisequipment. Other gases may be used in the switchgear. Further, thisinvention is equally applicable to the determination of loss of any gasfrom any containment structure. As described in further detailhereinbelow, the loss of gas is determined by a change in thetemperature compensated pressure.

Referring to FIGS. 11, 11A, 12, and 12A, some of the important internalelements of the invention are disclosed. FIG. 11 is a top view 1100 ofgas sensor apparatus internal components. FIG. 11A is a cross-sectionview 110A of FIG. 11. FIG. 12 is a top view 1200 of the gas sensorapparatus internal components. FIG. 12A is a cross-sectional view 1200Aof the gas sensor apparatus of FIG. 12. Switch printed circuit board 501includes a microcontroller unit 1103, 1301. Base plate 602 is affixed tothe adapter flange 604 by unnumbered screws. Lever 601 pivots about apivot portion (unnumbered) of the coupling 1002 of the bellows 1003.Stabilizers 1104 of the coupling 1002 tend to center the coupling 1002of the bellows as the bellows is raised and lowered in response topressure within the bellows. Gas port 1101 communicates gas into thebellows 1003. Riser 603, adapter flange 604, base plate 602 provide afoundation for operation of the lever 601. Lever 601 pivots aboutcoupling 1002. Bimetallic strip 708 (element) is affixed to the lever601 by retaining plate 706. Bimetallic strip 708 is also affixed to anunnumbered block by retaining plate 619. FIG. 7 illustrates thebimetallic strip 708 and notches cut therein for desired performancethereof. The material of the bimetallic strip 708 is not limited in thisspecification. The bimetallic strip functions to compensate for theinfluence the temperature of the gas has on gas pressure.

One important object of the invention is to determine if gas is beingloss from the switchgear. The gas sensor apparatus operates over a widerange of temperature and pressure conditions other than standardtemperature and pressure conditions. If pressure of the gas rises, butthe mass of the gas within a known volume stays the same (ie no lossoccurs), then the apparent pressure in the volume (tank) appears toincrease. The bimetallic strip 708, however, adds a downward force onlever 601 to counteract the additional force of the gas within thebellows due to an increase in gas temperature. If pressure of the gasdecreases, but the mass of the gas within a known volumes stays the same(ie no loss of gas occurs), then the apparent pressure in the volume(tank) appears to decrease. In a similar manner, an apparent decrease ingas pressure due to a relatively low temperature is compensated by anupward force on lever 601 to counteract the reduction in force of thegas within the bellows due to a decrease in gas temperature.

A magnet is affixed to the lever 601. A reflective surface is alsoaffixed to the lever 601. A Hall Effect sensor is applied to the switchprinted circuit board 501. A reflective object sensor is affixed to theswitch printed circuit board. In FIG. 12A, reference numeral 1102 isbeing used to denote the magnet and the reflective surface. In FIG. 12A,reference numeral 1103 is being used to denote the Hall Effect sensor,the reflective object sensor and the processor module.

FIG. 9 is a bottom perspective view 900 of the gas sensor apparatus.Hall Effect sensor 609 and reflective object sensor 610 are illustratedin FIG. 9 on the underside of switch printed circuit board 501. Magnet611 and reflective surface boss 614 are illustrated residing on lever601. Lever 601 moves vertically with a small amount of pivotal movementas well as can be visualized in FIG. 12. As lever 601 moves, the HallEffect sensor 609 and the reflective object sensor 610, detect themovement. Processor 1301 is not visualized in FIG. 9, but it can resideon the underside of printed circuit board 501 as illustrated in FIG.12A. Alternatively, processor 1301 can be located on the upper or topside of printed circuit board 501.

Referring to FIG. 13, processor 1301 receives temperature inputs fromtemperature probes within the sensor housing and processes the varioustemperature signals for further evaluation of the pressure informationreceived from the high resolution displacement transducers 1310.Reference numeral 1310 indicates that “OPTION X” displacementtransducer(s) may be used. This means that one or both of the HallEffect sensor and/or the reflective object sensor may be used in thecalculation of movement of the lever. It also means alternativedisplacement or distance sensing technologies including capacitive,sonic, inductive, or other well known technologies may be used singly orin combination. Movement of the lever in combination with the use oftemperature data, determines the gas density. In this patentapplication, various parameters are expressed by the ideal gas lawstated above.

${pV} = {{{nRT}\therefore\frac{n}{V}} = \frac{p}{RT}}$

Where P is gas pressure in the system, V is the volume of gas which isfixed by the equipment's rigid tank, R is a constant, T is temperature,and n is the mass quantity of gas. With V and R constant, measuring Pand T determines n/V, the gas density.

The gas sensor apparatus includes switch actuator elements 704 whichreside on lever 601 which engage the actuators 618AA of snap actionswitches 618A-D as illustrated in FIG. 8. FIG. 8 is a bottom view 800 ofthe printed circuit board 501. Switches 618A, 618B, 618C and 618Dprotrude downwardly from printed circuit board 501. Each switch includesan actuator 618AA although only one such actuator is labeled withreference numeral 618AA. When the actuator elements 702 engage theactuators 618AA, then contacts within the switch are electrically joinedor completed which results in an alarm, warning, or other signal sent toa user. These switch functions include the temperature compensationprovided by the bimetallic strip. Hall Effect sensor 609, reflectiveobject sensor 610, reflective object sensor phototransistor 610A, andreflective object sensor infrared LED emitter 610B are illustrated inFIG. 8.

FIG. 8A is a bottom perspective view 800A of the switch printed circuitboard 501 wherein the sensor connector 105 and the sensor connectorcontact pin 105A are illustrated along with the printed circuit board501. Connector support 502 is affixed to PCB flexible circuit element503. First 507B and second 507D thermistors are illustrated in FIG. 8Aas are third 617B and fourth 617D thermistors. First thermistor stalk507A and second thermistor stalk 507C are illustrated well in FIG. 8A.Third thermistor stalk 617B and fourth thermistor stalk 617C areillustrated well in FIG. 8A.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view 500 of the gas sensor apparatus similar toFIG. 4 with the processor printed circuit board 205 removed. Referencenumeral 501 is the switch printed circuit board and reference numeral502 is the switch printed circuit board connector. Flexible circuitelement 503 is interconnects the connector 502 to the switch printedcircuit board 501. Screws 504 retain the printed circuit board to themain structure of the apparatus. Switch connections 506 are viewed inFIG. 5 and enable attachment of the snap-action switches from the bottomside of the printed circuit board 501. The bottom side of printedcircuit board is best viewed in FIGS. 8 and 8A. Each of the switches618A-D is actuated by spring loaded metallic actuator elements 704 bestviewed in FIG. 7. The spring loaded actuator elements 704 are veryslightly bowed depending on the amount of adjustment 702 which bias theelements 704 and, therefore, control the actuation of the switches. Thespring loaded elements 704 are affixed to bimetallic hinge retainingplate 706. Still referring to FIG. 7, the reflector 613, the magnet 611,and the spring stud 701 are illustrated.

FIG. 7 is a top view 700 of the of the gas sensor apparatus asillustrated in FIG. 6 with the printed circuit board 501 removedillustrating the lever 601 and switch actuator elements. Manifold block106, lever 601, base plate 602, coil spring nut 606, spring stud 701,switch PCB mounting bosses 709A-D, 611 magnet, reflective surface 613,bimetal hinge base retaining plate 619, bimetal hinge base retainingplate nut 620, switch actuator element adjuster screws 702, switchactuator elements 704, switch actuator elements flange screw 705,bimetal hinge lever retaining plate 706, bimetal hinge lever retainingplate nut 707 and bimetal hinge 708 are all well illustrated in FIG. 7.

Referring to FIG. 5 again, thermistor 507A, thermistor stalk 507B andthermistor connections 507 are illustrated. Further, the connection 508for the reflective object sensor and the cutout 509 for the coil springare shown.

FIG. 6 is a left side view 600 of the gas sensor apparatus of FIG. 5.FIG. 6 illustrates manifold block 106, switch PCB 501, switch PCBprocessor PCB connector 506, first thermistor stalk 507A, firstthermistor 507B, third thermistor stalk 507C, and third thermistor 507D.Lever 601, base plate 602, riser 603, and adapter flange 604 areillustrated in FIG. 6. Second gas port 605, coil spring nut 606, coilspring washer 607 and coil spring 608 are illustrated in FIG. 6 as well.Riser 603 is generally cylindrically shaped and extends from the adapterflange 604 to the base plate 602.

FIG. 6A is an enlarged portion 600A of FIG. 6. FIG. 6A illustrates thelever 601, the Hall Effect sensor 609, the reflective object sensor 610,the magnet 611, the magnet boss 612, the reflective surface 613, thereflective surface boss 614, the ball 615, and the ball spring adjuster616.

FIG. 6B is a right side view 600B of the gas sensor apparatus of FIG. 5.Switches 618A-D are illustrated attached to the switch printed circuitboard 501. Switch PCB connector PCB 502 and the switch PCB flexiblecircuit element 503 are illustrated in FIG. 6B as well. Third 617B andfourth 617D thermistors are illustrated along with their respectivestalks 617A, 617C.

FIG. 10 is a front view 1000 of the sensor internal components. Ball 615is illustrated in FIG. 10 as is switch actuator element adjuster screwboss 1001. FIG. 10A is front view 1000 a of the gas sensor apparatusinternal components with the riser cutaway illustrating the bellows1003. Bellows lever coupling 1002 is illustrated in FIG. 10A inengagement with lever 601. Lever 601 is movable vertically depending onthe pressure applied to the bellows and depending on the action of thebimetallic hinge. As shown in FIGS. 10 and 10A, gap 1004 is the distancebetween the lever 601 and the ball 615, in other words reference numeral1004 is the lever displacement dimension.

FIG. 10B is an enlargement 100B of a portion of FIG. 10A illustratingthe gap 1004 between the lever 601 and the spring loaded ball 615. Asillustrated in FIGS. 10, 10A and 10B, vertically movable lever 601 ispositioned by virtue of pressure greater than 60 psig and less than 82psig.

The ideal gas law restated:

$\begin{matrix}{{pV} = {{{nRT}\therefore n} = \frac{pV}{RT}}} & (1)\end{matrix}$

p=absolute pressure (pounds per square inch or psi)

V=volume (cubic meters)

T=temperature (Kelvin)

n=gas quantity in moles (mol)

R=gas constant=1.2095×10⁻³

It should be noted that, p, the pressure in (1) is the absolute pressure(reference to a vacuum) which differs by atmospheric or barometricpressure from the pressure indicated by a typical gauge in atmosphericconditions. This can be stated mathematically as:p=p _(abs) =p _(g) +p _(atm)  (3)

p=p_(abs)=absolute pressure (psi)

pg=gauge pressure (psi)

p_(atm)=atmospheric pressure (psi)

With n the gas quantity in mol known, the mass quantity for a particulargas is derived from its molar weight:m=nM _(m)  (4)

m=gas quantity in grams (g)

n=gas quantity in moles (mol)

M_(m)=molar mass of gas species (g/mol)

A sequence of measurements of gas mass m_(i)=m₁, m₂, . . . m_(j) can bederived using corresponding sequences of pressure p_(i) and temperatureT_(i) measurements given only that the volume V, atmospheric pressurep_(atm), and gauge pressure p_(g) corresponding to each point in thesequence are known. A change in gas mass foretells a leak when ameasurement m_(j) is less than a measurement m_(k) made sometime earlier(k<j). Conversely, the addition of gas is detected when m_(j) is greaterthan m_(k). In a non-leaking system, all of the m_(i) will besubstantially equal.

Acquiring temperature sequence T_(i) begins by microcontroller 1301using analog to digital converter 1303 applied to temperature interface1307 accessing temperature probes 1308A through 1308D to acquire rawsensor measurements. Raw sensor measurements are then converted toaccurate temperature readings through a calibration process such as thatdepicted in FIG. 18 wherein sensor response is converted to temperaturein degrees centigrade for each sensor. Centigrade temperatures areconverted to requisite absolute temperatures by addition of the offset273.15 degrees. A point T_(i) can then be recorded as a particularweighted average of the different sensor's derived absolutetemperatures. In the preferred embodiment, the temperature sensors 1308Athrough 1308D correspond to thermistors 507B, 507D, 617B, and 617D.

Acquiring pressure sequence pi is somewhat more involved. It beginsagain with microcontroller 1301 using analog to digital converter 1303applied to displacement interface 1309 accessing high resolutiondisplacement transducer 1310 to acquire raw displacement sensormeasurements. Unlike temperature measurements, there is no simpletransformation of raw displacement measurements to absolute pressure,however. Firstly, a raw displacement sensor measurement is utilized bythe MCU to compute calibrated lever displacement dimension according tocalibration data such as that depicted in FIG. 16. In a preferredembodiment, the high resolution displacement transducer is thecombination of a reflective object sensor 610 in combination with areflective surface 613. In this case sensor response is calibrated usingdata such as that of curve 1601. In another embodiment, the highresolution displacement transducer is the combination of Hall Effectsensor 609 in combination with magnet 611. In this case sensor responseis calibrated using data such as that of curve 1602.

Once calibrated lever displacement dimension is derived, initial gaugepressure estimate can be computed using secondary calibration data asdepicted in FIG. 15. For example, if Hall Effect sensor response ismeasured to be 0.55 (1603), lever displacement dimension is determinedto be 0.026 inch (1604). This lever location 0.026 inch can betransferred to the graph of FIG. 15 (1503) and used to determine aninitial gas gauge pressure estimate of 82 psi (1604).

The intrinsic temperature compensation of the lever system comprisingbi-metal hinge 708 must now be taken into account. In the absence of thebi-metal element, lever position would simply track temperaturevariations. For the fixed volume V, gas pressure increases proportionalto increasing temperature (and vice versa). With only the resistance ofcoil spring 608, lever dimension 1004 would increase proportionatelywith the varying force exerted by bellows 1003. The bi-metal element isconceived to neutralize this temperature induced pressure variation. Astemperature increases, the bi-metal exerts approximately equal magnitudeequal force directed oppositely to the increased upward force of thebellows with the approximate result that the lever dimension remainsconstant. The converse occurs as temperature decreases. These mechanicsalone allow the mechanism to operate as a low resolution density monitorwherein eventual changes in lever position represent approximate changesin gas mass (as opposed to pressure variations due to temperature), and,for fixed volume V, gas density. With the advent of the microcontrollerin the present invention, it is possible to improve accuracy andflexibility of gas monitoring including the electronic measurement ofpressure, temperature, gas content, and gas density as explained above.

To complete the derivation of absolute gas pressure p from displacementand temperature sensor measurements, the initial gas gauge pressureestimate as above must itself be compensated for the temperaturebehavior introduced by the bi-metal element. The appropriatecompensation is derived from the data in FIG. 17 using temperature Ti asabove. For example, if Ti is 303K corresponding to a temperature of29.85 C (1703), a temperature compensation of approximately 2 psi isindicated (1704). Therefore, in the current example, a calibrated gaugepressure is computed equal to 82 psi+2 psi equals 84 psi. A reasonableestimate of atmospheric pressure is used based on typical or measureddata. An example of a typical value for atmospheric pressure is 14.7psi. The measurement of absolute pressure p_(i) is computed as the sumof the gas gauge pressure and the atmospheric pressure, 98.7 psi in theexample.

To complete the example, given a typical tank volume V of 1 cubic meter,along with a molar mass for SF₆ gas of 146.055 g/mol, the gas mass m_(i)is computed according to (1) and (4) to be 38.62 kg. The entire processis implemented by microcontroller 1301 in combination with theelectronic elements of FIG. 13 and is represented in block diagram formin FIG. 14. All data described above is recorded in microcontrollermemory including the raw sensor measurements through the final derivedmeasurement sequences T_(i), p_(i), and m_(i).

In one embodiment of the invention, the gas sensor system utilizes a gassensor apparatus mounted to the gas tank and connected via amulti-conductor cable (FIG. 28) to a gas sensor hub module (hub) mountedinside a breaker control cabinet. This embodiment is shown in schematicfashion in FIG. 19.

FIGS. 20, 21, 22, and 23 show various interfaces and mounting provisionsof the hub. The hub is an important aspect of the instant invention. Asingle hub can interface multiple gas sensor apparatuses (three a least,one for each phase of a 3-phase electrical distribution system). The hubcan also interface computers used by service personnel as well as thenetwork management system of the operating company using physical andlogical communications protocols specifically adapted and standardizedby the industry for those purposes.

FIG. 24 shows a graphical display of a human interface component where ahuman observer can easily visualize operating variables monitored andcomputed by the gas sensor system. These variables include power status,temperature, gauge pressure, gas mass, alarm status, and temperaturecompensated gas pressure.

FIG. 25 is another graphical display of a human interface componentwhere a human operator can select various operating values that controlthe operating of the gas sensor system. These operating values include areference temperature, pressure settings for operate, alarm, lockout,and over pressure thresholds, nominal breaker voltage and current,atmospheric pressure, and breaker gas tank volume. The value of gas masscorresponding to the operate pressure setting, the reference temperaturesetting, and the tank volume setting is computed and displayed.

As described above, the gas sensor system records measured and computeddata in time. FIG. 26 shows a typical, tabular presentation of such dataincluding temperature, pressure, gas mass, and alarm state for eachinstant in time (each row in the table).

The recorded data can be view graphically as well. This is shown in FIG.27.

The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms withoutdeparting from the spirit or essential characteristics thereof. Certainadaptations and modifications of the invention will be obvious to thoseskilled in the art. Therefore, the above discussed embodiments areconsidered to be illustrative and not restrictive, the scope of theinvention being indicated by the appended claims rather than theforegoing description, an all changes which come within the meaning andrange of equivalency of the claims are therefore intended to be embracedtherein.

REFERENCE NUMERALS

-   100 perspective view of sensor-   101 cover-   102 liquid tight pushbutton-   103 cover retaining screw-   104 housing-   105 sensor connector-   105A sensor connector contact pin-   105B connector nut-   106 manifold block-   106A manifold block bolt hole-   106B first gas port-   107 display deadfront-   107A deadfront gasket edge-   200 perspective view of the sensor with cover and housing removed-   202 pushbutton cable-   203 pushbutton cable connector-   204 processor PCB pushbutton connector-   205 processor PCB-   204 processor PCB pushbutton connector-   205 processor PCB-   300 perspective view of the sensor with pushbutton removed-   301 display PCB-   302 display PCB retaining screw-   303 display PCB standoff-   304 display digit-   305 display PCB processor PCB connector-   306 display PCB coil spring clearance hole-   204 processor PCB pushbutton connector-   205 processor PCB-   400 perspective view of the sensor with display PCB removed-   401 processor PCB retaining screw-   402 processor PCB standoff-   403 processor PCB coil spring clearance hole-   404 processor PCB display PCB connector-   405 processor PCB switch PCB connector-   105 sensor connector-   105A sensor connector contact pin-   500 perspective view of the sensor with processor PCB removed-   501 switch PCB-   502 switch PCB connector PCB-   503 switch PCB flexible circuit element-   504 switch PCB retaining screw-   505 switch PCB processor PCB connector-   506 switch connections-   507 thermistor connections-   507A thermistor-   507B thermistor stalk-   508 reflective object sensor connection-   509 switch PCB coil spring and switch adjustment clearance cutout-   507A first thermistor stalk-   507B first thermistor-   507C third thermistor stalk-   507D third thermistor-   600 left side view of the sensor internal components-   600A detail of lever and displacement mechanisms-   600B right side view of the sensor internal components-   600A detail of lever and displacement mechanisms-   601 lever-   602 base plate-   603 riser-   604 adapter flange-   605 second gas port-   606 coil spring nut-   607 coil spring washer-   608 coil spring-   601 lever-   609 Hall effect sensor-   610 reflective object sensor-   611 magnet-   612 magnet boss-   613 reflective surface-   614 reflective surface boss-   615 ball-   616 ball spring adjuster-   617A third thermistor stalk-   617B third thermistor-   617C fourth thermistor stalk-   617D fourth thermistor-   618A first switch-   618B second switch-   618C third switch-   618D fourth switch-   619 bimetal hinge base retaining plate-   620 bimetal hinge base retaining plate nut-   700 top view of the sensor lever and switch actuator elements-   701 coil spring stud-   702 switch actuator element adjuster screws-   703 unused actuator element adjuster screw threaded hole-   704 switch actuator elements-   705 switch actuator elements flange screw-   706 bimetal hinge lever retaining plate-   707 bimetal hinge lever retaining plate nut-   708 bimetal hinge-   709A first switch PCB mounting boss-   709B second switch PCB mounting boss-   709C third switch PCB mounting boss-   709D fourth switch PCB mounting boss-   800 bottom view of switch PCB-   800A perspective view of switch PCB from bottom-   900A perspective view of sensor internal components from bottom-   1000 front view of sensor internal components-   1001 switch actuator element adjuster screw boss-   1000A front view of sensor internal components with riser cutaway-   1000B front view of lever displacement detail-   1002 bellows lever coupling-   1003 bellows-   1004 lever displacement dimension-   1004 lever displacement dimension-   1100 top view of sensor internal components-   1100A crosssection view from right side of sensor internal    components-   1101 gas port-   1102 sensor module-   1103 processor module-   1104 stabilizer-   1200 top view of sensor internal components-   1200A crosssection view from front of sensor internal components-   1300 hardware block diagram-   1301 MCU (microcontroller unit)-   1302 communication subsystem-   1303 analog to digital converter subsystem-   1304 digital to analog converter subsystem-   1305 digital I/O interface subsystem-   1306 safety limit detection subsystem-   1307 temperature interface-   1308A first temperature sensor-   1308B second temperature sensor-   1308C third temperature sensor-   1308D fourth temperature sensor-   1309 displacement transducer interface subsystem-   1310 high resolution displacement transducer-   1311 battery-   1312 network management controller-   1400 processing block diagram-   1401 raw conversions from displacement and temperature subsystems-   1402 signal to noise enhancement-   1403 displacement to pressure calculation-   1404 pressure calibration-   1405 digital filtering subsystem-   1406 signal processing parameter set-   1407 pressure readings output to gas mass calculations and user    interfaces-   1500 lever position as a function of gas pressure at 25 C-   1501 lever response from 0 psig to 60 psig, ball nose spring plunger    operating-   1502 lever response from 60 to 100 psig, coil spring and bimetal    hinge only-   1503 a particular lever position of 0.026″-   1504 a pressure of 81 psig corresponds to position of 0.026″-   1600 normalized sensor response as a function of lever position-   1601 response of reflective object sensor-   1602 response of Hall effect sensor-   1603 a particular HES sensor response of 0.55-   1604 a particular lever position of 0.026″ corresponds to sensor    response of 0.55-   1700 graph of pressure compensation required as a function of    temperature-   1701 pressure compensation required as a function of temperature-   1702 zero compensation required at reference temperature-   1703 a particular temperature-   1704 a particular pressure compensation corresponds to a particular    temperature-   1800 graph of temperature as a function of normalized temperature    sensor response-   1900 block diagram of the gas sensor system in a 3-phase breaker    application-   1901A first breaker tank-   1901B second breaker tank-   1901C third breaker tank-   1902A first gas sensor on first breaker tank-   1902B second gas sensor on second breaker tank-   1902C third gas sensor on third breaker tank-   1903A first switch contact terminal interface for first gas sensor-   1903B second switch contact terminal strip interface for second gas    sensor-   1903C third switch contact terminal strip interface for third gas    sensor-   1904A first switch hub interface terminal strip for first gas sensor-   1904B second switch hub interface terminal strip for second gas    sensor-   1904C third switch hub interface terminal strip for third gas sensor-   1905 breaker control cabinet-   1906 gas sensor hub module-   1907 power input for gas sensor hub module-   1908 Ethernet interface of sensor hub module-   1909 USB interface of sensor hub module-   1910 serial communications interface of sensor hub module-   1911 wireless network interface of sensor hub module-   1912 uninterruptible power module-   1913 connection between sensor hub module and uninterruptible power    module-   1914A first cable interconnecting first gas sensor with first    contact and hub terminal strips-   1914B second cable interconnecting first gas sensor with second    contact and hub terminal strips-   1914C third cable interconnecting first gas sensor with third    contact and hub terminal strips-   2000 side perspective view of a gas sensor hub module-   2001 terminal strip retaining screw-   2002 first terminal of first hub interface terminal strip-   2003 second terminal of first hub interface terminal strip-   2004 third terminal of first hub interface terminal strip-   2005 fourth terminal of first hub interface terminal strip-   2006 first terminal of second hub interface terminal strip-   2007 second terminal of second hub interface terminal strip-   2008 third terminal of second hub interface terminal strip-   2009 fourth terminal of second hub interface terminal strip-   2010 first terminal of third hub interface terminal strip-   2011 second terminal of third hub interface terminal strip-   2012 third terminal of third hub interface terminal strip-   2013 fourth terminal of third hub interface terminal strip-   2100 end perspective view of a gas sensor hub module-   2101 power input terminal strip retaining screw-   2102 first terminal of power input terminal strip-   2103 second terminal of power input terminal strip-   2104 third terminal of power input terminal strip-   2105 fuse of gas sensor hub module-   2200 opposite side perspective view of a gas sensor hub module-   2300 top view of a gas sensor hub module-   2301 mounting flange of gas sensor hub module-   2302 first annunciator of gas sensor hub module-   2303 second annunciator of gas sensor hub module-   2304 third annunciator of gas sensor hub module-   2400 reporting screen of graphical user interface of gas sensor-   2401 identifying tab of reporting page-   2402 overpressure region of graphical pressure indicator-   2403 operating pressure region of graphical pressure indicator-   2404 below fill pressure region of graphical pressure indicator-   2405 alarm pressure region of graphical pressure indicator-   2406 operation lockout pressure region of graphical pressure    indicator-   2407 virtual needle pointer of graphical pressure indicator-   2408 reference temperature for graphical pressure indicator-   2409 selection, gas sensor-   2410 export trend data virtual pushbutton-   2411 indicator, number of entries accumulated in the data log-   2412 clear trend data virtual pushbutton-   2413 indicator, power status-   2414 indicator, temperature-   2415 indicator, gauge pressure value-   2416 indicator, calculated gas mass content-   2417 indicator, alarm state-   2500 gas sensor configuration screen of graphical user interface-   2501 identifying tab of configuration page-   2502 selection, reference temperature-   2503 selection, operate pressure threshold-   2504 selection, alarm pressure threshold-   2505 selection, lockout pressure threshold-   2506 selection, over pressure relief threshold-   2507 selection, nominal breaker voltage threshold-   2508 selection, nominal breaker interrupting current threshold-   2509 selection, atmospheric pressure-   2510 selection, tank volume-   2511 indicator, gas mass corresponding to operate pressure at    reference temperature-   2600 table of gas sensor numerical data from data log-   2601 data column, time stamp-   2602 data column, temperature-   2603 data column, pressure-   2604 data column, gas mass-   2605 data column, alarm state-   2700 graphical representation of gas sensor numerical data-   2701 update graphical data virtual pushbutton-   2702 graph, temperature versus time-   2703 graph, pressure versus time-   2704 graph, gas mass versus time-   2705 graph, alarm state versus time-   2706 y axis, particular alarm states-   2707 x axis, time-   2800 multi-conductor cable for interconnecting a gas sensor with a    gas sensor hub module-   2801 mass termination connector for gas sensor at breaker tank-   2802 over molded connector retainer-   2803 over molded cable strain relief-   2804 multi-conductor cable jacket-   2805 individual conductors with jacket stripped away-   2806 individual conductor color coding for connection to contact and    hub terminal strips within control cabinet

The invention claimed is:
 1. A gas sensor apparatus, comprising: aflange; a bellows; said bellows supported by said flange; a port, saidport communicating gas between a gas reservoir and said bellows urgingsaid bellows in an expanding direction; a base plate, said base platesupported by said flange; a bellows coupling, said bellows couplingincludes a pivot portion; a movable lever; said bellows residing betweensaid flange and said bellows coupling; said bellows coupling residingbetween said bellows and said lever, said pivot portion of said bellowscoupling engaging said movable lever displacing said lever to adisplacement in response to the temperature and pressure of said gas; anadjustable bias mechanism, said bias mechanism engages said lever; abimetallic element, said bimetallic element affixed to said lever and tosaid base plate; an electronic distance sensor, said electronic distancesensor includes a first element affixed to said lever and movabletherewith, and said sensor includes a second element; an electronicmicrocontroller; said second element of said electronic distance sensordetecting said distance between said first element of said electronicdistance sensor and said second element of said electronic distancesensor, said electronic distance sensor outputting a signalrepresentative of said distance between said first and second elementsto said microcontroller, said distance between said first element ofsaid electronic distance sensor and said second element of saidelectronic distance sensor used in calculating said displacement inresponse to the temperature and pressure of said gas; a temperaturesensor, said temperature sensor outputting a signal representative ofsaid temperature of said bimetallic element and said gas to saidelectronic microcontroller; said microcontroller determining atemperature compensated pressure of said gas within said gas reservoirbased on at least said displacement and said temperature; and, saidmicrocontroller determining the gas density within said gas reservoirbased on at least said temperature compensated pressure of said gaswithin said gas reservoir as communicated through said port.
 2. Anapparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein said electronic distance sensoris a Hall Effect sensor, and, wherein said first element of saidelectronic sensor is a magnet and said second element of said electronicdistance sensor measures the voltage due to presence and strength of themagnetic field of the magnet.
 3. An apparatus as claimed in claim 1,wherein said electronic distance sensor is a reflective object sensor,and, wherein said first element of said electronic sensor is areflective surface and said second element of said electronic distancesensor is a phototransistor in combination with an LED emitter, and saidphototransistor measures the distance between the first and secondelements.
 4. A gas sensor apparatus as claimed in claim 1, furthercomprising: a gas sensor hub module, said gas sensor hub moduleincludes: an enclosure with mounting flanges and holes; a terminal stripto interface said microcontroller; a terminal strip to interfaceelectrical power; an interface port; an interconnecting cable assemblycomprising a connector for said microcontroller; a multi-conductor,jacketed cable; and, connecting elements for said gas sensor hubtem1inal strip.
 5. A gas sensor as claimed in claim 1, furthercomprising: a snap action switch; said snap action switch includes anactuator; said actuator of said snap action switch engages said leverwhen said gas within said reservoir is at specified pressure.
 6. A gassensor as claimed in claim 1, wherein said microcontroller outputs acontrol signal when said gas within said reservoir is at a specifiedpressure.
 7. A gas sensor as claimed in claim 5, wherein said snapaction switch includes contacts and said actuator alternately makes orbreaks said contacts, and, said microcontroller monitors said contactsof said snap action switch to determine whether contacts of saidactuator are closed (made) or open (broken).
 8. A process for operatinga gas sensor, comprising the steps of: measuring the temperature of agas and a bimetallic element with a temperature sensor; biasing apivotable lever with respect to a base plate; flexibly interconnectingsaid pivotable lever to said fixed base plate using a bimetallicelement, said bimetallic element exerting a variable bias force uponsaid lever as a function of temperature; communicating gas between a gasreservoir and bellows, said bellows includes a bellows lever coupling,and said bellows lever coupling includes a pivotable portion; pivotingsaid pivotable lever about said pivotable portion of said bellows levercoupling of said bellows; urging said bellows and said pivotable portionof said bellows lever coupling in response to gas pressure in adirection toward or away from said base plate; measuring, using anelectronic distance sensor, displacement of said pivotable lever withrespect to said base plate as a function of gas pressure within saidbellows and as a function of temperature of said bimetallic element;outputting a signal representative of said displacement of saidpivotable lever with respect to said base plate as a function of gaspressure within said bellows and as a function of temperature of saidbimetallic element to a microcontroller; outputting a signalrepresentative of said temperature of said gas and said bimetallicelement to said electronic microcontroller; determining, using saidmicrocontroller, a temperature compensated pressure of said gas withinsaid gas reservoir; and, determining, using said microcontroller, gasdensity within said gas reservoir.
 9. A process for operating a gassensor as claimed in claim 8 wherein said electronic distance sensor isa Hall Effect sensor.
 10. A process for operating a gas sensor asclaimed in claim 8 wherein said electronic distance sensor is areflective object sensor.
 11. A process for operating a gas sensor asclaimed in claim 8 wherein said temperature sensor is a thermistor. 12.A process for operating a gas sensor as claimed in claim 8, wherein saidstep of measuring displacement of said pivotable lever with respect tosaid base plate as a fm1ction of gas pressure within said bellows and asa function of temperature of said bimetallic element is performed usinga plurality of electronic distance sensors.